Training accident on Flaming Gorge sends 5 deputies into water

SALT LAKE CITY — Five Wyoming sheriff’s deputies were taken to the hospital Wednesday after their boat overturned on Flaming Gorge Reservoir during a training exercise, their department said. None of them had serious injuries.

The Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office in Wyoming said five deputies and a police K9 were conducting training on a boat near the Buckboard Marina at approximately 10:30 a.m.

“During a slow-speed controlled shore landing exercise, the vessel began taking on water, became partially submerged, and overturned,” the sheriff’s office said. “Five deputies and one K9 were on board at the time. The boat’s captain was briefly trapped inside the cab before being assisted to safety by another deputy.”

All the deputies and the dog were rescued from the water, and all five deputies were taken to the hospital to be evaluated. The dog was taken to a vet. The sheriff’s office said they received medical attention “out of an abundance of caution,” and none were seriously injured.

“Our deputies train constantly so they can respond effectively in real-world situations. It’s a timely reminder always to remain vigilant when on the water because accidents happen in an instant, even with years of experience,” said Deputy Jason Mower, a spokesperson for the sheriff’s office.

Sweetwater County Sheriff John Grossnickle said the accident could have turned out much worse, and he commended everyone involved for their “professionalism, composure and teamwork.”

“We’re grateful to the deputies who acted quickly and to the first responders and medical teams who provided care,” Grossnickle said.

The Sweetwater County Sheriff’s Office requested that the Wyoming Game and Fish Department investigate the accident. It also said that while the deputies’ boat overturned, it didn’t sink, and efforts were underway to retrieve it.